Dead Space is survival horror at its peak. While I tend to think of Resident Evil as more action-oriented with horror elements, Dead Space genuinely creeps up on you and keeps you on edge throughout the entire experience.
As someone who didn't play the original 2006 version very much, but enjoyed Dead Space 2 and 3, diving into this remake felt like a fresh start. I was excited to discover the origins of a franchise that many have praised over the years.
The original Dead Space was a bold move at the time, introducing a new universe with rich lore. I'm glad it's back, and I was eager to see how this remake would bring that vision to life. And honestly? It does not disappoint.
The tension is real; I often found myself jumping at shadows, never quite sure when a necromorph would lunge at me from a vent or jump down from the ceiling. This constant anxiety was intense, and for the first few hours, it left me feeling a bit stressed. However, I eventually got used to it, part of the experience of navigating a horror game.
The necromorphs themselves are unique and grotesque, resembling a chilling mix of the creatures from "The Thing" and "Alien." The game's design choice to focus on dismemberment adds extra tension, turning combat into a strategic challenge, especially with the original and challenging boss fights you encounter.
One standout feature is the weaponry. Instead of traditional firearms, you use repurposed engineering tools, which adds a creative twist to the gameplay. It's a refreshing take that sets Dead Space apart from other horror games.
The setting of the space station feels like a mix of "Event Horizon" and "Blade Runner," with stunning visuals that enhance the eerie atmosphere. While I appreciate the level of detail, sometimes the factory-like environment can be a bit overwhelming. Still, the sheer number of movable objects throughout the game adds a nice touch and helps with immersion.
Character design and voice acting are also top-notch. It was great to hear the same actor return from Dead Space 2 and 3, and that small change of him taking his helmet off when speaking made the character feel more relatable this time around.
Unfortunately, it seems like expectations fell short for this remake, so a sequel may not be in the cards. That's a shame because this game really gets so much right.
Overall, I'd give the Dead Space remake a solid 9/10. It hits nearly every mark as a survival horror title. My only complaints are the occasional feelings of exhaustion due to the constant tension and how the drab scenery could be a bit much at times. But in the end, if you're a fan of the genre, this game is definitely worth your time.
